How to Get Gum and Glue Out of Your Hair

Gum and glue stuck in your hair threatens to ruin a new haircut or cause pain and agony when trying to figure out what to do. If you are stuck in a hair crisis situation with gum or glue, use these tips for a fast and efficient removal without having to resort to cutting it out.

Oil

Any kind of oil will help loosen gum or glue to help it be worked out of the hair with a fine-toothed comb or toothbrush. Baby oil is said to dissolve many kinds of gum, but any oil such as olive oil, cooking oil, or almond oil could be used as well. Oily substances like Crisco and sunscreen will work as well. Slather the oil onto the gum or glue, and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Use a rag and a comb or toothbrush to gently work the gum or glue out of the hair.

Conditioner

Strong conditioners have been used to successfully remove gum and glue from the hair. Thoroughly coat wet hair with conditioner, paying special attention to the glue or gum site(s). Wrap the hair in a towel, and let the conditioner soak into your hair for 20 minutes. Gently rinse, and repeat if needed. After the glue or gum has been sufficiently loosened by the conditioner, work it out of the hair with a small-toothed comb or toothbrush.

Baking Soda

Baking soda and water is said to work as a fix for gum in the hair. Simply mix a few tablespoons of water with enough baking soda to make a paste. Apply the paste to the gum, let it sit on the hair for several minutes and brush it out. Baking soda is also a safe way to remove glue out of a child’s hair. Mix a few squirts of dishwashing liquid with 4 tablespoons of witch hazel if you have it. Add enough baking soda to make a paste, and apply to glue spots with a toothbrush. Leave on for at least 15 minutes, and work out the glue with the toothbrush. Follow with a conditioner, and repeat if necessary.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is good for the hair, and the egg and oils in it make it a great candidate for removing sticky clumps from the hair. Slather it generously over gum or glue and wrap with a towel for 20 minutes. Rinse, repeat if necessary, and use a comb to work out the sticky mess.

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